Spirit Ride 2015

I’m thrilled to be riding in support of the Y and GEN7. They share my inclusive philosophy and have amazing programs that build strong communities. It’s so important that we provide our youth with opportunities to lead healthy active lives.

With the support of University faculties such as UBC Medicine, Lakehead Law and Queens Engineering, record numbers of Aboriginal students are becoming doctors, lawyers and engineers. https://twitter.com/ubc/status/601178210915717120

Collaboration is key

We’re starting with bikes though the generous support of Sport Central in Edmonton and working with the dedicated staff at Chief Julius School. 

Next is a cross country ski program. This is amazing teamwork involving the School, 4x Olympian Sharon Firth, coaching via Paul Hanthorn, equipment thru Sport Central and vetted by Mike Neary of Ski Fit North Alberta. 

Thinking this is a model we could take across the north!

Here’s the clip from Friday’s show with CBC’s Lisa Laco. 9 min of airtime! I talked about the Ride, bike programs and visiting my wonderful grandkids in town. 

http://www.cbc.ca/player/Radio/Local+Shows/Ontario/Superior+Morning/ID/2667256212/

Chocolate milk, that is. The best recovery drink after a long ride. I got in my 1st 200 km ride of the year and started at 5am. So peaceful as the sun comes up and then the Double to finish it off.

Friday night I watched some high level Six Nations lacrosse and was entertained by the Paperweight kids (5 & 6 yr olds) during the 1st intermission. Success factors: great facilities, community support, celebration of culture. 

I was thrilled to meet Justice Murray Sinclair and present at last year’s inaugural Aboriginal Health Conference. 

Love riding in the country, the fresh air, the scenery. Sunday was warm and I got in 7 hrs on the bike. So nice to put away the winter clothes and apply sunscreen!

Here’s a pic of an old barn north of Orangeville.  

Check out the Gallery page for pics and notes on the remarkable people I’ve met and events I’ve attended in the past 2 years. 

Great article by Sarah Swenson, Wetaskiwin Times

http://www.wetaskiwintimes.com/2015/04/19/bike-tour-promoting-youth-fitness-coming-to-maskwacis